DC Shot List Removes Photography

Article & Photos by Betsy Spruill Clarke, Photography Maven

Good Afternoon.

Washington Life called me and nicely asked me to take down my photos from this event for reasons that are understandable.  This is a magazine that people purchase off the news stands and, next to the articles, one big slice of the draw is the photography.  I had posted the photos because I misunderstood a section of their photographer's contract.  However, I respect this request, not only because they are a client and they purchased the rights, but because the boundaries of rights and copyrights also protect photographers like me and it wouldn't be fair for me to abuse those limitations if I expect others to follow them. Right?

So, my article and take on the event does follow this explaination.  However, if you want to see the photos, you can see them in two places:  newstands on May 4th, as select ones will be displayed in Washington Life; and their SmugMug site, on May 4th, where you can see just about every single photo I took at the event!

Washington Life Magazine had their annual Young & The Guest List party, this past Thursday night, and from everything this photographer saw, it was a near-perfect event.

As in real estate, location is key, and being at 1200 First Street--you know, the cool office building flanked by FUR and Ibiza, with the very-rad and visibile-from-street-view letter display in the foyer.  Taking place on the not-quite-finished 10th floor, the layout was open with several different zones that were clearly defined without the need for actual barriers.  For example, Chris Barns and Adrian Loving had an area to DJ and just on the other side of the floor, was a Top 20 band of sorts, yet the sounds did not complete.  Warren Brown and I marveled at the lofty feel and decor, as well as the residential potential for fun, living in a space like that.  (I think he was seriously inspired - in the market for a loft, Warren?) With models on platform stages, tables and lounge settings throughout, the very fun Tommy McFly conducting his radio show nearby, pink-lit trees and lovely lighting, I have to say the event planner thought of almost everything which is why I had smiling faces in every shot.

The Photographer's Suggestion:  The stop & repeat (paparazzi wall) was too close to the check-in table and champagne bar, which--even with lovely WL interns directing traffic--really made it too convoluted and easy for many to skip out on or accidentaly miss getting their photo taken.  Also, I was given a goldish wrist band but the guests were given a hot pink one.  That stood out in the photos, though I did try to get many to hide theirs.  In all honesty, though the event was lavish and wonderful, those who were not there may not see it that way with such a distracting and clubby accessory.